Hike, Bike, or Walk in Salem, Massachusetts

There’s just something special about fall in New England. The vibrant leaves put on a spectacular show, the air is cool and crisp, and the ocean has never smelled so wonderful. After a long, hot, and very dry summer, many in the northeast want to enjoy the outdoors before Mother Nature changes her mind and welcomes in Old Man Winter. Salem hiking and biking trails are the perfect places to do just that. 

Salem and surrounding communities have many scenic places to walk, bike, hike, or stroll with your children or furry friends this fall, many with beautiful vistas of the ocean or with the leaves on full display. 

Here are a few of our favorite places to get outdoors, enjoy nature, and partake in the beauty that Salem and the North Shore have to offer this fall. 

Salem Woods Loop

Salem Woods Loop is a 2.3-mile loop trail near the entrance of the golf course located on Wilson Street. All Trails reports that the trail is moderately challenging and takes approximately 51 minutes to complete. 

This is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash. 

This mainly single-lane path offers beautiful vistas of the marshes and rocky up and downs to make it all that more interesting. 

Marblehead Rail Trail 

This 8.5-mile, round-trip trek starts in Salem and winds its way through Marblehead to Beach Bluff. Views of the ocean, woodland areas, and quiet neighborhoods are gorgeous at any time of year but especially amazing in the fall. 

The trip usually takes approximately two hours over the gravel path and is considered an easier route for bird watching, hiking, and mountain biking.

Salem Willows Park 

The Salem Willows is a scenic, seaside public park that allows for all types of activities from standup paddleboarding to kayaking, swimming, and fishing. It is known for its games, rides, and delicious Hobbs popcorn, but it’s also known for its ocean views and amazing people-watching! 

This trail is rather short, taking only 10 minutes or less but allows for places to sit and watch the boats, kayakers, or the last swimmers of the season. Make the loop multiple times to fulfill your exercise needs. 

Fort Lee 

Fort Lee is a historic American Revolutionary War fort in Salem, Massachusetts. The site is located at a high point next to Fort Avenue on Salem Neck. 

The 1.3-mile loop trail is considered an easy trail. It offers views of the ocean and woodland areas and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. 

This autumn take a walk, hike, or bike ride around the beautiful woods and trails of Salem, Massachusetts, and enjoy the last throes of warm weather before New England battens down the hatches once again.